NIFS announced on August 4, 2023 that it had a meaningful time with H.E. Nikenike Vurobaravu, the President of the Republic of Vanuatu, to discuss ways for the development and mutual cooperation in oceans and fisheries between Korea and Vanuatu. 

The visit was realised with the request from the government of Vanuatu, following the meeting at the Korea International Cooperation Conference on Oceans and Fisheries (KICCOF 2023) held in Busan, May of 2023, for the strengthened cooperation between Korea and Pacific Island Countries. 

Vanuatu's President Nikenike Vurobaravu said,  " As I understand, the Korea's fishery industry in the past made a great contribution to the national development, and behind the growth was the development of fisheries science and technology. Against this backdrop, I wanted to visit NIFS particularly during my visit to Korea."

Showing keen interest in NIFS's advanced technology in fisheries science, His Excellency expressed his hope to develop the fishery industry in Vanuatu with the help of Korea's fisheries science and technology. 

In response, the president of NIFS said, " Vanuatu is surrounded by the oceans. I think Vanuatu could take the oceans as a driving force for the national development, just as Korea did. Taking this opportunity, I expect that our experience and technology could contribute to the economic development in Vanuatu."

With the introduction of the charm and beauty of Busan Metropolitan City, as well as Busan's theme for the World Expo 2030, NIFS's president also asked Vanuatu to support Korea's bid to host the 2030 World Expo in Busan.